As aspiration of bacteria in oropharyngeal secretions is an important risk factor for pneumonia in the young and elderly, poor oral health may also contribute to the development of pneumonia. This article provides a case study analysis of the links between oral health and pneumonia
Dental care professionals play a major role in providing advice and treatment for halitosis, which can cause social distress for patients. This article discusses the aetiology of oral malodour, how it affects patients and how dental care professionals can manage it
Milward P, Katechia D, Morgan MZ (2013) Knowledge of removable partial denture wearers on denture hygiene. Br Dent J 215: E20
Stem cell transplantation, or bone marrow transplant, is used to treat haematological disease including blood cancers. This therapy has oral health implications for patients, who need thorough preoperative dental assessment and appropriate treatment
There is an association between diabetes and periodontitis, a chronic inflammatory disease of the gums. Anne Phillips gives an overview of the incidence and diagnosis, and discusses the treatment options
Bacteria becoming resistant to antibiotics is a natural phenomenon but is made worse by suboptimal and unnecessary use of antibiotics. Changes to dental prescribing practices and patient education are needed to resist this problem
Dysgeusia—disturbance of taste—is usually transient but can be a distressing long-term problem for some patients. It has numerous causes. Assessment will identify the reason for it and addressing the cause will often resolve the problems
Periodontitis compromises the supportive tissues around teeth. Treating its cause may reduce inflammation and achieve some repair. A more predictable way of regaining attachment in intrabony and interradicular defects is the use of regenerative procedures
Tobacco use has a detrimental effect on oral health and is related to conditions such as tooth loss, periodontal disease, impaired wound healing, teeth staining, bad breath and oral cancers. This article provides an overview of the dental care professional’s role in assisting patients to quit tobacc
Alcohol misuse affects both individuals and society and is estimated to cost the NHS £3.5 billion every year. Awareness of the effects of alcohol not only on the oral cavity but also on the whole body enables the dental professional to discuss with patients the associated risks
Dental composites are commonly used in general dental practice, yet many of us fail to understand their evolution and make up. The modern composite is the result of practitioners and patients demanding the very best aesthetics combined with durability and the manufacturers responding to this demand
Dr Nigel Carter OBE, Chief Executive of the British Dental Health Foundation, explains how a badge can make a difference in support of Mouth Cancer Action Month in November
Edwards J, Palmer G, Osbourne N and Scrambler S (2013) Why individuals with HIV or diabetes do not disclose their medical history at the dentist: a qualitative analysis. Br Dent J215: E10
